CVE-2025-1960: Authentication Bypass Vulnerability

CVE-2025-1960 Overview

CVE-2025-1960 is a critical vulnerability classified under CWE-1188 (Initialization of a Resource with an Insecure Default). This vulnerability exists in Schneider Electric WebHMI systems where default password credentials are not properly enforced to be changed on first use. Additionally, the default username is not displayed correctly in the WebHMI interface, which could lead administrators to overlook the need to change credentials, leaving systems vulnerable to unauthorized access.

Critical Impact

Attackers can exploit unchanged default credentials to execute unauthorized commands on affected systems, potentially gaining full control over industrial control system (ICS) infrastructure.

Affected Products

• Schneider Electric WebHMI systems with default credentials
• Industrial control systems utilizing WebHMI interface
• Systems where initial password change was not enforced

Discovery Timeline

• March 12, 2025 - CVE-2025-1960 published to NVD
• March 13, 2025 - Last updated in NVD database

Technical Details for CVE-2025-1960

Vulnerability Analysis

This vulnerability stems from insecure default configuration practices in the WebHMI interface. The system ships with preconfigured default credentials that are intended to be changed during initial setup. However, the interface fails to properly display the default username, creating a usability issue that may cause administrators to skip or improperly complete the credential change process.

The vulnerability allows remote attackers to authenticate to the WebHMI interface using known default credentials without any prior authentication or special privileges. Once authenticated, an attacker gains the ability to execute unauthorized commands on the target system, potentially leading to complete system compromise.

Industrial control systems are particularly sensitive targets because successful exploitation could result in manipulation of physical processes, disruption of operations, or unauthorized access to sensitive operational technology (OT) networks.

Root Cause

The root cause of CVE-2025-1960 is the improper initialization of authentication resources with insecure default values. Specifically:

1. Insecure Defaults: The system ships with known default credentials that are publicly documented or easily guessable
2. Missing Enforcement: There is no mandatory credential change requirement during first-time setup
3. UI/UX Defect: The default username is not displayed correctly in the WebHMI interface, potentially confusing administrators and preventing proper credential management
4. Lack of Credential Validation: The system does not validate whether default credentials have been changed before allowing operational use

Attack Vector

The attack vector for this vulnerability is network-based, requiring no user interaction or prior authentication. An attacker with network access to the WebHMI interface can attempt authentication using known default credentials. The attack flow typically involves:

1. Network reconnaissance to identify exposed WebHMI interfaces
2. Attempting authentication with known default username/password combinations
3. Upon successful authentication, executing unauthorized commands through the WebHMI interface
4. Potential lateral movement within the OT network or manipulation of connected industrial processes

Since no code examples are available from verified sources, organizations should consult the Schneider Electric Security Notice for detailed technical information about the vulnerability mechanism and affected configurations.

Detection Methods for CVE-2025-1960

Indicators of Compromise

• Multiple failed authentication attempts followed by successful login using default credentials
• Authentication events from unusual IP addresses or geographic locations
• Command execution or configuration changes from accounts that typically remain dormant
• Access patterns inconsistent with normal operational schedules

Detection Strategies

• Implement authentication monitoring for WebHMI interfaces to detect login attempts using default usernames
• Deploy network intrusion detection systems (NIDS) with signatures for default credential exploitation attempts
• Audit all WebHMI systems to identify instances where default credentials remain unchanged
• Monitor for unauthorized command execution or configuration modifications

Monitoring Recommendations

• Enable comprehensive logging on all WebHMI interfaces and forward logs to a centralized SIEM
• Create alerts for authentication events involving default or commonly-used usernames
• Implement baseline monitoring to detect anomalous behavior on HMI systems
• Regularly audit user accounts and access patterns on industrial control systems

How to Mitigate CVE-2025-1960

Immediate Actions Required

• Immediately change all default credentials on affected WebHMI systems
• Audit all Schneider Electric WebHMI deployments to identify systems with unchanged default passwords
• Implement network segmentation to restrict access to WebHMI interfaces from untrusted networks
• Review access logs for evidence of unauthorized access using default credentials

Patch Information

Schneider Electric has released a security notice addressing this vulnerability. Organizations should review the Schneider Electric Security Notice (SEVD-2025-070-03) for detailed remediation guidance and any available firmware or software updates. Contact Schneider Electric support for the latest patches applicable to your specific product versions.

Workarounds

• Implement strong, unique passwords for all WebHMI accounts immediately upon deployment
• Place WebHMI interfaces behind a VPN or firewall, restricting access to authorized personnel only
• Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) where supported for WebHMI access
• Disable remote access to WebHMI interfaces when not operationally required
• Implement IP allowlisting to restrict WebHMI access to known management workstations

# Example network access control configuration
# Restrict WebHMI access to management network only
iptables -A INPUT -p tcp --dport 80 -s 10.10.10.0/24 -j ACCEPT
iptables -A INPUT -p tcp --dport 443 -s 10.10.10.0/24 -j ACCEPT
iptables -A INPUT -p tcp --dport 80 -j DROP
iptables -A INPUT -p tcp --dport 443 -j DROP